Wisconsin Deer Die-Off Continues as EHD Outbreak Persists

Key points

• The DNR confirmed EHD in samples from Washington County and continues to monitor the outbreak in Ozaukee and Waukesha counties.
• Over 600 dead deer have been reported in Washington County, with additional cases in Waukesha and Ozaukee.
• EHD is transmitted by midges and causes rapid death in deer, but poses no risk to humans.
• Local governments, such as the Village of Richfield, are utilizing public works staff to dispose of carcasses.
• The DNR will only test new samples if reports appear far from the known outbreak area.

Background

This outbreak follows previous EHD incidents in Wisconsin, including a significant die-off in 2012. The current situation is distinct from chronic wasting disease (CWD) quarantines at captive deer farms in Crawford and Portage counties, which were reported in early September. EHD outbreaks typically end after the first hard frost, which has not yet occurred in the region.

How outlets are covering it

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and WISN provide consistent reporting on the scale of the outbreak, citing DNR data on over 600 dead deer in Washington County. The Journal Sentinel emphasizes the strain on local governments, noting that Richfield shifted to using public works staff for carcass removal due to the volume. WISN highlights the personal impact on residents, such as a West Bend couple who found four dead deer in ten days. The DNR maintains that the virus does not infect humans, a point reiterated across all sources to alleviate public concern.

Why it matters

The EHD outbreak impacts local wildlife populations and creates logistical burdens for local governments and residents. While the virus does not affect humans, the rapid die-off of deer affects local ecosystems and hunting activities. The DNR’s monitoring efforts are crucial for understanding the spread and potential long-term impact on deer herds in southeastern Wisconsin.

What to watch

The DNR will continue to monitor reports of dead deer and will test samples only if they appear far from the known outbreak area. The outbreak is expected to end after the first hard frost, which may slow midge transmission. Residents are encouraged to report sick or dead deer to the DNR to help track the disease's spread.